Rafael Jodar Advances to First ATP Masters 1000 Semi-Final at Canadian Open

Rafael Jodar has made headlines by reaching his first ATP Masters 1000 semi-final at the Canadian Open, defeating Arthur Fils in a thrilling match. The 19-year-old Spaniard, who started the year ranked No. 165, is now on the brink of breaking into the ATP Top 10. With a chance to climb as high as No. 9, Jodar's impressive performance showcases his potential in the world of tennis. He will face Brandon Nakashima in the semifinals, adding to the excitement of the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 12, 2026, 13:19 IST

Jodar's Remarkable Journey

File image of Rafael Jodar(Photo: @TheTennisLetter/X)

Montreal, Aug 12: Rafael Jodar has secured his place in the semi-finals of the ATP Masters 1000 for the first time, defeating Arthur Fils with a score of 7-6 (5), 6-3 at the Canadian Open. The 19-year-old from Spain has made history as the first teenager to reach the men's semifinals at this event since 2018.

Starting the year ranked No. 165, Jodar's victory over Fils propelled him to No. 11 in the live rankings. This marks his fourth semi-final appearance on the ATP Tour this year, following his performances in Marrakech, Barcelona, and Washington, as he aims for a remarkable ascent into the ATP Top 10.

If he clinches the title in Canada, he could potentially rise to No. 9, depending on the outcomes of other matches.

After a slow start, Jodar saved a break point and broke Fils for a 2-0 lead, consistently applying pressure with his returns and solid baseline play.

Fils managed to fend off two break points at 0-3 and three more at 1-4, shifting the momentum. He began the seventh game with a lengthy 28-shot rally, showcasing his resilience.

As the match progressed, rain interrupted play when Fils was serving at 4-5, 30-0. After a one-hour delay, he held serve to level the match at 5-5.

Despite the break, the rallies remained thrilling. Jodar opened the 11th game with a stunning volley winner after a grueling 25-shot rally.

Fils, known for his agility, made Jodar work hard for every point. The only mini-break in the tiebreak occurred when Jodar executed a powerful backhand down the line, followed by a perfect drop shot to take a 2-1 lead.

Another drop shot allowed him to break for 2-1 in the second set, leading Fils to express his frustration on his racquet. Although Fils managed to get back on serve, Jodar responded to take a 4-3 lead. With Jodar positioned at the net, he capitalized on an opportunity to finish with a volley.

Despite rolling his ankle earlier in the set, Jodar appeared to be moving well, concluding the match with another impressive winner.

In the semifinals, Jodar will face Brandon Nakashima, who advanced after defeating Italy's Luciano Darderi with a score of 6-2, 6-3.